Wandsworth Celebrates Inclusive Sports Festival and ParaGames Victory

The recent festival at Tooting Bec Athletics track provided a unique opportunity for young people with disabilities to engage with a variety of sports and inclusive activities.

This well-attended event featured activities organized by local groups such as Flyerz Hockey, Disability Sports Coach, Surrey Cricket, Fulham FC Foundation, Live Karma Yoga, and the Baked Bean Charity.

In a proud achievement, Wandsworth won the ParaGames trophy at the London Youth Games Finals held at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. This victory was celebrated with a special award ceremony during the festivities this week.

The winning team included 76 athletes from ten local schools, such as Ark Bolingbroke, Burntwood, and Linden Lodge, who competed in various sports, including athletics, basketball, swimming, football, boccia, and indoor rowing.

The hope is that the festival and the success of the pan-disability team will inspire more young people to participate in inclusive sports within Wandsworth.

Aaron McKibbin, a three-time Paralympian and triple bronze medallist, was born with bilateral talipese (club foot) and competes in Table Tennis. He will represent Team GB in Table Tennis for the fourth consecutive games.

Aaron expresses pride in having a disability and emphasizes the importance of local figures participating in the Paralympics to inspire young people. He encourages all young individuals to engage in sports this summer, regardless of their abilities.

“My message to any young person taking up sport is to enjoy yourself. Find something you like doing; that’s the most important thing,” he stated.

According to Aaron, his experiences with Table Tennis have imparted valuable lessons, including discipline and problem-solving skills. “Sport has changed my life, and I believe it has the power to do that for everyone!” he added.

The council is committed to inclusivity, offering more local residents the opportunity for free (off-peak) gym sessions, swimming, and other sports activities at council-run leisure and sports centres under the Access for All scheme.

For more information about Wandsworth’s sports and leisure facilities, residents are encouraged to visit the official website. Additionally, details about ParalympicsGB can be found online.

To apply for the Team Wandsworth 2025 trials, interested individuals can send an email for further information.